#18: Akbar Kurtha, 1st Assistant Production Accountant - Balancing the Books in Film Production

Filmmaking Framed

In this episode of Filmmaking Framed, Akbar Kurtha, a 1st Assistant Accountant and actor, sheds light on the pivotal role of production accountants in managing film production finances. Dive into Akbar's comprehensive discussion on accurate record-keeping, handling accounts payable, payroll, tax credits, and VAT refunds. Discover the collaborative nature of the role, emphasising the significance of teamwork, communication, and building strong relationships within the film industry.

Learn about the necessity of efficient financial processes, maintaining good vendor communication, and ensuring timely payments for freelancers. The episode also explores the handover process to post-production accountants and the critical role of proper accounting practices in smooth financial management.

Whether you're aspiring to become a production accountant or curious about the financial side of filmmaking, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the integral role of production accounting in the success of film and TV projects. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this essential profession in the film industry!

Key Lessons

• Maintaining Good Relationships and Communication: Akbar emphasises the importance of building strong relationships with all departments and vendors. Effective communication ensures that everyone understands the financial constraints and processes, leading to smoother operations.

• Understanding Both Sides of the Camera: Akbar highlights the importance of his experience as both an actor and an accountant. This dual perspective helps him appreciate the pressures and needs of the creative team, fostering better collaboration and understanding within the production process.

• Handling Urgent and Unexpected Payments: Akbar discusses the challenges of managing last-minute financial requests, such as urgent location payments or unexpected costs for props and set design. He describes the need for flexibility and quick decision-making to keep the production on track.

Resources

Industry Groups and Forums:

London Production Accountants (Facebook Group):

Training and Educational Resources:

ScreenSkills: A website that offers training and courses related to various aspects of film production, including payroll and other accounting functions.

https://www.screenskills.com/

Production Guild: Provides courses and training specifically for production accounting, such as payroll courses.

https://productionguild.com/

Professional Associations:

BECTU (Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union): Akbar stresses the importance of joining industry unions like BECTU for support and protection in the industry.

https://bectu.org.uk/

Networking and Experience:

Akbar suggests volunteering or interning in an accounts department to gain first-hand experience and build valuable connections within the industry. This practical experience is crucial for understanding the intricacies of production accounting and making a name for oneself.

Interested in working with Akbar? Contact him via his website

https://akbarkurtha.com

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.